Correct Option: A. Existence of democratic governance Explanation of the Correct Answer: The action of the Okiti people received prompt government attention primarily due to the existence of democratic governance. In a democratic system, the government is accountable to its citizens and is expected to respond to their needs and concerns. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of why this option is correct:

1. Democratic Principles: In a democracy, the government is elected by the people and is responsible for representing their interests. This means that when a group, such as the Okiti people, raises an issue or concern, the government is obliged to address it to maintain its legitimacy and support from the electorate.
2. Public Pressure and Accountability: Democratic governance often involves mechanisms for public participation, such as protests, petitions, and community meetings. If the Okiti people took action (e.g., protests or advocacy), the government would be compelled to respond quickly to avoid losing public support and to demonstrate that it is listening to its constituents.
3. Media and Public Awareness: In a democratic society, media plays a crucial role in highlighting issues faced by various groups. If the Okiti people's actions were reported widely, it would create public awareness and pressure on the government to act, reinforcing the idea that democratic governance requires responsiveness to citizen concerns.
4. Legitimacy and Trust: For a government to maintain its legitimacy, it must show that it cares about all its citizens, including minority groups like the Okiti people. Prompt attention to their actions would be a way to build trust and demonstrate that the government values all voices in the society.

Explanation of Why Other Options Are Weaker:

• Option B: Need to support minority groups: While supporting minority groups is an important aspect of governance, it is not the primary reason for the prompt attention in this context. The existence of democratic governance encompasses the need to support all groups, including minorities, but it is the democratic framework that compels the government to act quickly. Therefore, this option is too narrow and does not capture the broader context of accountability in a democracy.
• Option C: Need to reward patriotic actions: This option suggests that the government’s response was based on rewarding patriotism. However, in a democratic context, actions are typically driven by the need to address citizens' concerns rather than rewarding them. The government’s role is to serve the public interest, not to reward individuals or groups for their actions unless those actions align with broader democratic principles.
• Option D: Election that was fast approaching: While it is true that elections can motivate governments to act quickly to gain favor with voters, this option implies a more opportunistic approach rather than a genuine response to the needs of the people. Democratic governance should ideally be about consistent responsiveness, not just about election cycles. Thus, this option is less about the fundamental principles of democracy and more about political strategy.

Revision Summary:

• Democratic governance requires the government to be responsive to the needs and concerns of its citizens.
• Public pressure and accountability are key components of a functioning democracy, compelling governments to act.
• Media plays a significant role in raising awareness and prompting government action in democratic societies.
• Supporting minority groups is important, but the broader context of democratic accountability is the primary reason for government responsiveness.